From February 27 to March 1, 2025, the CCDB Climate Center, Gazipur hosted a transformative 3-days Training of Trainers (ToT) on Climate Change and Gender Equality under the Gender Transformative Climate Resilient Microfinance Project. Arranged by Gana Unnayan Kendra (GUK) and facilitated by the VAALO team and supported by Cristian Aid, the training brought together 26 participants, including volunteers, branch managers, program coordinators, upazila coordinators, PSOs, representative from Cristian Aid and key stakeholders. This initiative aimed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to integrate gender-sensitive approaches into climate change programming while promoting resilient and inclusive microfinance systems.
The training, held from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day, featured interactive modules covering key topics such as the basics of climate change, gender equality, the connection between climate and gender, and how to apply these concepts within microfinance projects. Participants engaged in case studies, role-playing, group discussions, and problem-solving activities, creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment.
A major highlight was a session by Dr. Mohammad Zahirul Islam, a Climate Change and Health expert with over 14 years of experience working with organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), BRAC University, and Griffith University. His presentation on the health impacts of climate change and its integration with public health strategies offered valuable insights on how climate action can be embedded into broader development efforts.
The Training concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony, where Dr. Islam personally acknowledged participants for their commitment to advancing gender-responsive climate resilience and microfinance practices.
This training marks a significant step toward fostering a more inclusive, climate-resilient future, where gender equality and climate action intersect to drive sustainable change.
